"もったいない" What a Waste!
The idea of "mottainai" is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, and reflects the belief that resources should be valued and waste avoided. At Shotengai, we strive to uphold this ethos by promoting sustainable products and minimizing waste wherever possible.
Healthy & Safe
Finding allergy-friendly options can be challenging. Fortunately, our Shotengai box provides tasty alternatives that you can safely enjoy!
Japanese Arts (IV): Noh
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Noh is the one of oldest performing arts in the world. It is a Japanese theatrical performance that combines dance, drama, music, and poetry. It has been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Stories of Noh are based on traditional literature, depicting both real and legendary events.
Hanami: Japanese Flower Viewing
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Japan is home to thousands of sakura (cherry blossom) trees. Sakura is one of the most prominent images in Japanese culture. Hanami (flower viewing) has thus become an indispensable activity for Japanese people in spring. Under the beautiful sakura trees, the Japanese can have a pleasant time with families and friends.
Onsen: Japanese Bathing Culture
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When you picture Japan, it's hard not to think of the classic images, such as cherry blossoms, geishas, and Mount Fuji. However, one of the biggest but lesser-known Japanese cultures is the Onsen culture (bathing in hot springs). Japan is located along the "Ring of Fire" and is home to 10% of the world's active volcanoes, making it full of geothermal activity.
Natsu Matsuri (IV): Japanese Summer Festival
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You are totally wrong if you think Natsu Matsuri is all about music, dance, and shrines! It's undeniable that the three above are important and indispensable parts of Natsu Matsuri. There is something more exciting! Horse racing, speed contests, splendid fireworks...if these are your cup of tea, read to explore more about Natsu Matsuri!
Natsu Matsuri (II): Japanese Summer Festival
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After learning basic information about Natsu Matsuri, it's time to explore some interesting festivals! With a long duration, a huge number of participants, and a grand scale, Gion Matsuri, Tenjin Matsuri, and Sanno Matsuri are the three greatest Natsu Matsuri. Don't miss these spectacular celebrations!
Manga: Heart of Japanese Popular Culture
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Naruto, Luffy, Conan, Sakuragi, Doraemon, Yagami…If you've been access to Japanese comics (manga), you must have heard at least one of these names. With various genres and copious content, manga is the heart of Japanese pop culture. If you've never heard of any Japanese manga, here is the article to help you to cross the threshold!
Japanese Beer: The Most Popular Alcoholic Beverage in Japan
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Contrary to most people’s expectations, beer is the most popular alcoholic beverage in Japan. Nowadays, the four main beer producers and hundreds of microbreweries in Japan produce tons of beer every year to meet the consumer's needs. With this passage, you can learn the history, styles, and new trends of Japanese beer!
Japanese Nightlife: Food, Drink, and Music
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After dusk, the flickering and shimmering lights illuminate a new side of the Japanese cities. Japanese nightlife is full of drinks, food, and music. People can relax and enjoy themselves after a long day. After reading this passage, you'll have more ideas about where to enjoy an exciting night in Japan!
